autonomy

[aw-ton-uh-mee]

noun

plural

autonomies 

1. independence or freedom, as of the will or one's actions.

   the autonomy of the individual.

2. the condition of being autonomous; self-government or the right of self-government.

   The rebels demanded autonomy from Spain.

3. a self-governing community.

autonomy

/ ɔːˈtɒnəmɪ /

noun

1. the right or state of self-government, esp when limited

2. a state, community, or individual possessing autonomy

3. freedom to determine one's own actions, behaviour, etc

4. philosophy

   1. the doctrine that the individual human will is or ought to be governed only by its own principles and laws See also categorical imperative

   2. the state in which one's actions are autonomous

Other Word Forms

• autonomist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of autonomy¹

First recorded in 1615–25; from Greek autonomía “independence,” equivalent to autónom(os) autonomous + -ia -y ³

Word History and Origins

Origin of autonomy¹

C17: from Greek autonomia freedom to live by one's own laws; see _autonomous

Example Sentences

“Eternity” understands the desperation for a modicum of autonomy in this world, yet cleverly reminds viewers that having a choice doesn’t necessarily make life any easier.

Read more on Salon

"We are proud to support the rapid growth of the civil and military aviation markets in the country as well as the strategic autonomy of the country," he added.

Read more on Barron's

Each viewer’s recollection is summoned and given autonomy.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

As one of the few countries outside the U.S. or China able to attempt a wide degree of AI autonomy, South Korea has emerged as a test case for sovereign AI.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

This lack of autonomy leaves companies unable to manage how they communicate with shareholders, while the billing practices of these intermediaries remain opaque.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• freedom 
• self-determination 
• self-government 
• self-rule 
• sovereignty